Lesson 14.01 Reagan Administration

• Introduction
• Learn
• Try It
• Task

Introduction

Central Question:  How did Ronald Reagan use the power of the presidency to influence domestic and foreign affairs?

During the presidential campaign of 1980, former California governor Ronald ReaganPresident of the United States from 1981-1989 asked the American public, "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?" For most Americans, the answer was a resounding "no." The economy remained weak, foreign policy matters appeared to be worsening, and the country seemed stuck in a general sense of malaise. Reagan's offers of hope and a better tomorrow resonated with the American people and contributed to his landslide victory over Carter in 1980.

Upon assuming office, Reagan got to work implementing tax cuts to stimulate the economy. Within two years, the nation showed signs of rebound with a growing economy. On the foreign front, Reagan's strong leadership helped navigate the nation through terrorist threats with Libya and nuclear threats with the Soviet UnionThe U.S.S.RMap, Soviet Union and East and South Asia. IRC, 2005. Image. Discovery Education. Web. 15 July 2014. .. By the end of his second term in office, the end of the Cold War was near and the Soviet Union had been transformed into a peaceful friend.